By Mark Baber
January 30 – The long-running soap opera that has become Mario Balotelli in England looks to be drawing to a close with AC Milan’s announcement that he has agreed a four-and-a-half year contract.
AC Milan’s club director Umberto Gandini said: “Transfer agreement for Balotelli signed with Manchester City. Medical is tomorrow in Milan, then personal terms until 2017 will be signed.”
An initial fee of €22million is believed to have been paid, rising to €25million with bonuses and add-ons.
Balotelli has become a cult figure in England generating a loyal following among City fans and beyond for his almost sulking presence on the pitch, and his madcap antics off it. England will miss the drama he provides.
Once described by Jose Mourinho as “unmanageable”, Balotelli had a seemingly fiery relationship with his manager at City, Roberto Mancini, that while explosive and full of incident always appeared to lack malice.
The final incident between the pair – a training ground bust-up where the manager and player were involved in a confrontation that saw other staff have to pull them apart – was likely the tipping point for the club and Mancini in allowing Balotelli to leave.
City signed Balotelli in 2010 for £24 million and he has brought a lot of attention to the club, whilst scoring 20 goals in 54 appearances (many scored coming from off the bench).
Mancini has stated Balotelli was not for sale and it is believed the move was at the player’s request. Brought up by foster parents of Jewish Italian heritage, Balotelli had to wait until his 18th birthday to gain Italian citizenship, on which occasion he stated: “I am Italian, I feel Italian, I will forever play with the Italian National Team.”
Balotelli leaves behind a nation who admired his football and, for the most part, loved his character. Clips of his most amusing moments on Youtube have been viewed by millions.
Contact the writer of this story at info@insideworldfootball